Let's Meet For a Beer

Meet Steve McVicker, co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of the iconic Canadian Caesar brand, Matt & Steve's. Matt & Steve’s journey began with a single goal: to make the classic Caesar even better. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, Steve’s entrepreneurial flame was ignited at a very young age. Alongside his best friend Matt, Steve set out to elevate the classic Caesar, creating a product that would soon become a staple for Caesar lovers everywhere. What started with The Extreme Bean has now expanded to a full line-up of Caesar essentials, including Caesar Rimmer, Asparagus, Baby Dills, and the Original Spiced Caesar canned cocktail.As Chief Brand Officer, Steve is the creative force behind the brand’s identity. His ability to connect with people and his relentless drive have been key to the success and growth of Matt & Steve’s.Crack open a spicy Caesar and join us for a conversation on the evolution of Matt & Steve's, Steve’s entrepreneurial journey, the art of building an iconic brand.Guest:Steve McVicker: LinkedInMatt & Steve's: Instagram | Caesar Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Eric Schrader, beer captain and owner of Leduc Brewing Company. For three generations, the city of Leduc has been home to his family. Eric has always felt a deep connection to his community and a desire to give back.After the social isolation of the pandemic, Eric felt inspired to help build up the community in Leduc and bring people together through his love for beer. In 2023, Leduc Brewing Company was born. As the owner of Leduc Brewing Company, Eric aims to create a space where people can gather and connect over a great beer.Join us for a conversation with Eric about his journey, the importance of community, and his passion for crafting exceptional beer.Guest:Leduc Brewing: Instagram | Facebook | Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Marc Wandler - Co-founder and CEO of Susgrainable. An expert in the emerging circular economy, Marc has led his business from an idea to securing an offer on CBC Dragons’ Den (Season 18, Episode 14). Marc’s journey as a founder began with a class project at UBC while pursuing his MBA. Wanting to bring this project to life, Marc launched Susgrainable in 2018. Susgrainable upcycles spent grains from craft brewers to create nutritious, delicious, easy-to-make upcycled barley flour, baking mixes, and baked goods sold in retailers like Whole Foods and Safeway. Susgrainable moved operations to Calgary in 2024 and is eager to collaborate with the craft beer scene in Alberta to fight food waste and low-fibre diets. Get ready to be inspired by Marc's journey and his innovative approach to sustainability in the brewing industry. You won’t want to miss this one!Guest:Marc Wandler: LinkedIn Susgrainable:  Instagram | Facebook  Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Ignacio Rodriguez - Manager of Brewing Operations at Big Rock Brewery. Originally from Venezuela, Ignacio moved to Canada in 2015 and has been in the brewing industry for 7 years. Now in his third year at Big Rock, he oversees beer-making processes in Calgary and operations in BC and Ontario.A Chemical Engineer with brewing studies from Siebel Institute, he graduated with honours from the Brewing program at Kwantlen Polytechnic. His achievements throughout his career include a gold medal at the Canadian Beer Awards in 2023 and a silver medal at the Canada Beer Cup 2023 for Traditional Ale.Today, Ignacio focuses on maintaining consistency in Big Rock's main brands and driving innovation for new ones. Join us for a conversation about collaboration, innovation and combining industries.Guest:Ignacio Rodriguez:  Instagram | LinkedInBigRock Brewing: Instagram  | Facebook |  WebsiteHost:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Mark Hamilton, the  Director of Sales & Marketing at Origin Malting & Brewing.With a long-standing career in the beverage alcohol industry, Mark has seen it all and still loves every moment of it. His experience in the On-Premise channel is unparalleled, having worked on iconic brands like Guinness, Bacardi, Grey Goose, Crown Royal, and Jack Daniels. Mark's journey has taken him across Western Canada, beginning on Vancouver Island and eventually returning to his hometown of Calgary.In recent years, Mark has been a pivotal part of Origin Malting & Brewing, a unique farm-to-tap craft brewery based in Strathmore with a new location now in Calgary. As Director of Commercial, he brings his vast experience to the table, driving the company forward and ensuring the quality and consistency of their brews. Mark is passionate about the craft beer space and believes Origin's unique approach to farming, malting, and brewing will make it a brand to watch for years to come. Grab a cold one and get ready to be inspired by Mark's journey and his dedication to the craft brewing industry.Guest:Mark Hamilton: LinkedIn Origin Brewing Co: Instagram | Facebook | Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Alex Horner - outdoor adventurer, craft beer enthusiast, and co-founder of Banded Peak Brewing. Located in the heart of the Barley Belt in Calgary, Banded Peak brews adventurous beer for adventurous people. Alex started the company with his two childhood friends in 2016 after experimenting with homebrewing, and was quickly acquired by Labatt in 2020. Named after the iconic summit in Kananaskis Country, Banded Peak tries to use as much Alberta barley as possible, totaling about 90% of their grain.Join us for a conversation diving into Alex's journey, his love for the outdoors, and his passion for crafting beers that celebrate adventure.Guest:Alex Horner: Instagram | LinkedInBanded Peak Brewing: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

This is a special episode of the Let’s Meet For a Beer Podcast.Abi Moore, a very special part of our community, recently passed away in a tragic accident.  I was fortunate to connect with Abi a few years ago to record a podcast, and I want to re-share our conversation again today. A little bit about Abi…Abi was a huge part of the Fernie Brewing Family, and an integral member of Fernie’s running community.Abi first started running while living in London. At the time she worked with an interactive media agency and her role involved a lot of “interactive meetings” (ciders at the pub!) and the running became a measure to offset the amount of time she spent at the pub in those meetings. Growing up she skied with her family, but with a serious lack of mountains they would make the trip to France to get on a proper ski hill.Abi’s passion for skiing played a big part in her decision to move to Fernie.   At the time Fernie was just getting onto the map as a great ski town and Abi spent her first year working guest services at the ski hill and met her future husband in her first winter. She sought an extension on her work visa to stay and work as a ski instructor and also started working with Fernie Brewing Co. in 2009. Abi’s passion for running didn’t come quite as naturally as her love for skiing.  However, watching her husband compete in The Sinister Seven race inspired her to join him the following year in 2012. As her love for running grew she wanted to share her passion with others, which she did by creating Stag Leap Running Company.I was lucky to work with Abi through my role with Alberta Beer Festivals. I was also fortunate to connect with Abi through our shared love of the outdoors and trail running. My thoughts and prayers are with Abi’s family and friends.As you listen to the podcast, I hope that you appreciate what an amazing person Abi was, and how much of an impact she had on everyone that was fortunate enough to know her.“You never regret a run … it always makes me feel better!"  - Abi Moore.Stag Leap Running Co.Fernie Brewing Co.

Meet Wilson Wong - sales professional, author, co-owner of three businesses, and passionate community builder.An expert in direct sales, Wilson began his career in 2008 selling Cutco knives, specializing in business appreciation and closing gifts. Beyond sales, Wilson is the co-owner of CRW Orient Coffee Company, Van Loc Vietnamese Sandwiches, and Boa & Hare Coffee and Cocktails - all located in Edmonton’s Chinatown.Passionate about real estate and community involvement, Wilson is a dedicated member of Edmonton's Chinatown. He founded the Chinatown Longevity Guild, focusing on youth leadership and mentoring programs to ensure the longevity of Chinatowns across North America.Grab a cold one and get ready to be inspired by Wilson's remarkable story and his efforts to make a lasting impact on his community. Guest:Wilson Wong: Instagram | LinkedInVan Loc: Instagram | Website Host:Mark Kondrat: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | WebsiteLMFAB Podcast:  Instagram | TikTok | Website

Meet Tay Odynski, aka Taytayski! Tay’s passion for art started early – she’s even still got her childhood sketchbooks. Over the past eight years, she’s carved out a unique niche in the art community, both online and at home in Calgary.Her artistic process is driven by spontaneity, allowing the paint to dictate the direction of each piece. This results in dynamic works characterized by bold brushstrokes, splatters, drips, and a variety of mediums.Labelling herself a "painter for the people," Tay's initial projects were diverse commissioned artworks that vividly brought her clients' dreams to reality. Her early repertoire includes vibrant and lively portraits ranging from celebrities and musicians to pets and athletes, as well as dazzling depictions of drag queens. Her signature use of vivid colours, energetic paint splatter, and eye-catching glitter makes her art stand out in any setting.Join us for a discussion about getting into your flow, authenticity, and getting to do what you love!Host:Dillon StecykPartner & COO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillonstecyk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dillonstecyk/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Tay OdynskiTraditional Freelance Artist & Live Event PainterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/taytayski/?hl=enLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tay-odynski-476674b6/https://www.taytayski.com/

Chef Nicole Gomes wears many hats: TV personality, top chef, and chief chicken officer. If you've ever indulged in the tantalizing flavours of Cluck n’ Cleaver or cheered on a Top Chef: Canada showdown, you're already familiar with Nicole's culinary wizardry. But her story is more than just accomplishments — it's a testament to passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers.Join us as we dive into the savoury details of her groundbreaking career, from her days as the first woman in David Hawksworth's esteemed kitchen to beating Bobby Flay. Nicole serves up inspiration and insight, revealing the stories behind her culinary triumphs and the challenges she's conquered along the way.Grab a cold one and let’s uncover the delicious story behind one of Canada's most celebrated chefs.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Nicole GomesChef, TV Personality and Chief Chicken Officer of Cluck n Cleaver Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefngomes/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gomes-12140b70/Website(s): https://cluckncleaver.com/

You may recognize Vikram Vij from a number of places – as a famed Canadian chef, or as the owner of Vij’s in Vancouver. Maybe you watched him as a fiery entrepreneur on CBC’s Dragons Den, or as a judge on Chopped Canada. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: his vibrant spirit is bound to leave a lasting impression. In this episode, we delve into Vikram's journey, tracing his path from a young, ambitious restaurant owner to an internationally acclaimed culinary icon. Join us as we uncover the untold stories behind Vikram's success, gain insights into the challenges he's overcome, and hear wisdom from his remarkable journey. Whether you're an aspiring chef, a budding entrepreneur, or simply someone with a hunger for inspiration, this conversation promises to leave you informed, inspired, and hungry for more.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Vikram VijRestaurateur, TV Personality, Owner and Chef of Vij’sInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefvikramvij/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikram-vij-359570185/?originalSubdomain=caWebsite(s): https://vijs.ca/

Hang around the Alberta craft beer industry long enough, and you're bound to cross paths with Anthony Lynch. With an array of experience across the hospitality and brewing sectors, Anthony has left his mark on numerous local craft breweries, from Wild Rose to Broken Barrel, Citizen Brewing, and now, Alley Kat Brewing.Join us for an enlightening discussion as we delve into the nuanced landscape of craft brewing in the province. Grab a cold one, get comfortable, and get ready to gain a deeper understanding of what makes our province's beer scene so special.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Anthony LynchVice President of Culinary Operations at Concorde Entertainment GroupInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/allynch1972/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-lynch-5675856/Website(s): https://www.alleykatbeer.com/home

Meet JP Pedhirney, born and raised in Calgary, he’s earned his spot as a prominent figure in the city's culinary scene. With leadership over a diverse portfolio of over a dozen acclaimed restaurants, he's played a pivotal role in elevating Calgary's status as a premier dining destination.In his role as Vice President of Culinary Operations at Concorde Entertainment Group, JP Pedhirney serves as the creative mind behind several of Calgary's top dining establishments, such as Major Tom, Surfy Surfy Bar, Barbarella Bar, and the acclaimed Bridgette Bar, contributing significantly to their success.Tune in for a discussion about chasing your career goals and keeping your cup half full.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:JP PedhirneyVice President of Culinary Operations at Concorde Entertainment GroupInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jp_pedhirney/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-pedhirney-111796a1/ Website(s): https://www.concordegroup.ca/

Meet Graham Sherman: self-proclaimed "high-level geek" turned entrepreneur. With nominations for Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year and recognition as one of Calgary's "Top 40 Under 40," Graham's story is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we uncover the latest news from Tool Shed, detailing their restructuring to address financial challenges. Explore how the brewery is pivoting its operations, optimizing resources, and forging ahead in the face of adversity. Grab a cold one and lets dive in into the inner workings of Tool Shed Brewing, as they craft a new chapter in their journey toward sustainable success.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Graham ShermanCo-Founder of Tool Shed Brewing CompanyInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/shermandelux/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shermandelux/?originalSubdomain=caWebsite(s): https://www.toolshedbrewing.com/

Meet Paul Wilson, a seasoned Albertan with an impressive history of leadership roles in companies like Marks Work Wearhouse, Canadian Tire, Princess Auto, and Spence Diamonds. Today, he's shifting gears toward the cannabis industry through his latest venture, Decibel Cannabis.Join us on this week's episode as Paul drops his wisdom on growth strategies, consumer behaviour, and the path to profitability. When it comes to brewing success in the cannabis industry, Paul’s crafting a blend that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Paul WilsonCEO of Decibel CannabisInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/decibelcc/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldwilson001/Website(s): https://decibelcc.com/

Meet Tim Truax, the self-proclaimed super nerd, community innovator, and podcast extraordinaire. With a passion for all things nerdy and a knack for fostering meaningful connections, Tim's journey into the world of podcasting began in 2015 when he took the helm as the host of the acclaimed Nerd Room podcast. Since then, he has been on a mission to amplify voices and bring together like-minded individuals through the power of audio storytelling. Now, Tim has the role of CEO and Chief Podcaster at @podsummit, where he continues to push the boundaries of podcasting innovation and collaboration.Join us as we explore the art of building communities, fostering connections, and discovering the endless possibilities that arise when we unite over shared interests.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Tim TruaxCEO and Chief Podcaster at Pod SummitInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/podsummit/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-truax-212931a4/Website(s): https://www.podsummit.com/

This week, we chatted with Connor Curran, the founder and co-owner of Local Laundry, a Canadian clothing brand known for its dedication to social impact. Connor's entrepreneurial journey began in 2015, sparked by a fateful encounter with his washing machine. Since then, Local Laundry has become a local pioneer, emphasizing community support, partnerships, and top-notch Canadian-made clothing. They've established themselves as a prominent supplier of high-quality Canadian garments with a strong focus on meaningful collaborations.Join us for an engaging conversation about teamwork, community involvement, and creativity – all over a beer, of course!Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagramLinkedInABF WebsiteLMFAB WebsiteGuest:Connor CurranFounder and co-owner of Local Laundry. InstagramLinkedinWebsite: Local Laundry https://locallaundry.ca/

Who doesn't love chocolate? Certainly not Jacqueline Jacek, a visionary chocolatier with a heart as sweet as her creations. With a brilliant idea, unwavering support from her loving family, a solid education in the art of chocolate making, and an innate passion for fashion, Jacqueline embarked on her journey by establishing JACEK Chocolate Couture right in the cozy confines of her basement in 2009.Over the years, Jacqueline's dedication and talent have transformed JACEK Chocolate Couture into a thriving enterprise. Today, they operate out of a state-of-the-art CFIA-licensed production facility in Sherwood Park, Alberta, where a skilled and passionate team of 25+ individuals works tirelessly to bring her delectable visions to life.Join us for a delectable discussion where chocolate, creativity, and ambition converge.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Jacqueline JacekFounder of Jacek ChocolateInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jacekchocolate/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-jacek-571a1b43/Website: https://jacekchocolate.com/Brought to you by Taste Alberta!Taste AlbertaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tastealberta/Website: https://www.tastealberta.ca/

Meet Elia Herrera, a third-generation Mexican Chef with a story as impressive as her culinary skills. She's not only been a contestant on both Top Chef Canada and Top Chef Mexico but is a classically trained pastry chef with experience in some of the world's top restaurants in Spain, France, Italy, and Belgium.Originally from Cordoba, Veracruz-Mexico, Elia hails from a family of accomplished female chefs, including her grandmother, who catered to celebrities, Presidents, Ambassadors, Governors of Mexico, and even the Kings of Spain.Join us for a conversation about the importance of pushing oneself to achieve goals, building upon family traditions, and proudly representing one's culture. Explore how Elia is taking Mexican cuisine in Canada to new heights with her restaurants: Milpa in Calgary, and Tecolote and Colibri in Toronto.Host:Mark KondratPartner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/m.kondrat?igshi...LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kondrat-aab92444/ABF Website: https://albertabeerfestivals.comLMFAB Website: https://letsmeetforabeer.comGuest:Elia HerreraChef and Co-Owner of Milpa, Tecolote and ColibriInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/chefeliaherrera/?hl=enLinkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/elia-herrera-8718754a/Website(s): Milpa RestaurantTecolote RestaurantColibri RestaurantBrought to you by Taste Alberta!Taste AlbertaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tastealberta/Website: https://www.tastealberta.ca/

Jeff Humphreys, a born and raised Calgarian, began his digital journey in 1995 while sitting in a computer lab at Mount Royal University. Over the years, his endeavors have culminated in the creation of The Calgary Sessions, a community-based podcast that highlights the stories of athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs in Calgary. Jeff has also successfully merged his passion for digital creativity with his longstanding commitment to the local community, resulting in the establishment of Shortline Creative, a local digital marketing agency.Tune in to the Let's Meet for a Beer podcast for a captivating discussion on digital entrepreneurship, community connections, and the pursuit of one's passions.Host:Mark KondratOwner & CEO of Alberta Beer Festivals and ‘Let’s Meet for a Beer’ PodcastInstagramLinkedInABF WebsiteLMFAB WebsiteGuest:Jeff HumphreysFounder of Shortline Creative and The Calgary SessionsInstagramLinkedInWebsite